The captivating Boracay Island in Aklan, Philippines, set the stage for the 2024 International Workshop on Mathematical Biology (IWOMB 2024). From January 22 to 25, the Paradise Garden Resort Hotel and Convention Center hosted scientists, researchers, and global experts. The workshop’s theme "Resilience and Sustainability: Leveraging Biology, Mathematics, and Technology," delved into the intricate connections between these fields, revealing innovative approaches to address challenges in our ever-changing world.
The workshop served as a unique platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, uniting biologists, mathematicians, and technologists in lively discussions transcending traditional boundaries. Renowned experts, including Tomás Veloz, Jae Kyoung Kim, Oleg Igoshin, KreÅ¡imir Josić, Yuji Hirono, Victoria May Mendoza, and Cleofas R. Cervancia, delivered thought-provoking talks, emphasizing the critical role of mathematical modeling in understanding complex biological systems and the need for resilience and sustainability.Â
Featuring diverse sessions on topics ranging from ecological modeling to epidemiology and computational biology, the audience of forty-six (46) junior researchers (out of sixty participants) from different universities nationwide gained an introduction and insight into exploring cutting-edge research at the intersection of mathematics and biology. The choice of Boracay Island added a unique dimension, with its stunning natural beauty inspiring participants to consider how mathematical biology can contribute to the resilience and sustainability of ecosystems worldwide.
In a significant stride for the field of mathematical biology in the Philippines, the PSMB elected a distinguished set of first board members at IWOMB 2024, marking a pivotal moment for the society. This development reinforces PSMB's commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth within the mathematical biology community.
As the workshop concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to applying insights in their respective fields. The collaborative spirit fostered during the event is expected to lead to groundbreaking research and advancements in the coming years.
The 2024 International Workshop on Mathematical Biology in Boracay was a resounding success. It is already the sixth in the series, each one aiming to foster networking and to showcase the power of collaboration across disciplines. The event highlighted the importance of leveraging biology, mathematics, and technology to address global challenges and contribute to the resilience and sustainability of our planet. As the scientific community looks forward, the seeds planted in Boracay are sure to bear fruit in the form of innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of the intricate connections between the living world and the mathematical frameworks that help unravel its mysteries.